Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourself?
Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourself?
Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance is a masterclass in psychological body horror, offering an in-depth critique of celebrity culture, misogyny, substance abuse, and the relentless pursuit of youth. With Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley delivering career-defining performances, this film will provoke, disturb, and fascinate – often simultaneously. It’s a stylish, mind-bending adventure that gets more intriguing with each shocking turn.
At 50, Hollywood’s beloved fitness queen Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore) faces a harsh reality check. Her producer (Dennis Quaid) cancels her TV show, seeking a younger, fresher face to captivate audiences. Fate intervenes when a car accident introduces Elisabeth to the mysterious “Substance”, a revolutionary procedure that unleashes her youthful essence, embodied by Sue (Margaret Qualley). But this dual existence comes with a major caveat: a weekly switch, every seven days, no exceptions. As Sue gets a taste of fame, it puts their arrangement at risk and invites severe consequences.
With her Cannes-awarded screenplay, Fargeat provides a twisted cinematic experience with humour and artistic flair. Striking a balance between disturbing, impactful and unhinged, she expertly explores complex themes with creativity. The Substance challenges the toxic beauty standards that define modern society, questioning whether chasing youth and physical perfection is worth sacrificing one’s true identity. Through its unnerving horror elements, the film urges viewers to recognize the risks of seeking external validation and to find power in self-acceptance. While the finale goes balls to the wall, prioritizing excessive splatter and shock value, a more refined approach may have better reinforced its themes. Nonetheless, the absurdly comical reveal and conclusion will linger long after watching.
Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley are perfect as the leads, fully committing to their complex intertwined characters. Their dedication to the project and trust in director Coralie Fargeat shine through, allowing them to bring to life a nightmarish narrative that’s both haunting and hypnotic. Demi Moore, especially, offers a fearless performance deserving of Oscar recognition (hopefully genre bias won’t prevent a nomination). A striking scene, where Elisabeth struggles with her reflection in the mirror, showcases Moore’s talent as her character’s emotions escalate from envy and rage to self-loathing. She’s given some juicy material and her bold yet vulnerable portrayal of Elisabeth is, without a doubt, her best performance to date.
The Substance excels technically, with standout cinematography and sound design that capture every unsettling detail. Frantic quick shots, alarming close-ups, and strategically deployed sound effects create a tense atmosphere amplified by vibrant colors. Makeup and special effects are insanely realistic and will have you squirming in your seat at times. Every element, from editing to costume design (Demi serves in that yellow jacket!), contributes to the film’s vivid aesthetic, nodding to classics like Carrie, The Shining, The Thing, The Fly and even Requiem for a Dream.
Destined for cult classic status, The Substance leaves a lasting mark on the body horror genre. Its unique blend of collective shock and humour enhances the theatrical experience, while its thought-provoking depth invites repeated viewings at home. With Demi Moore’s and Margaret Qualley’s outstanding showings and Coralie Fargeat’s daring direction, this film is essential for horror lovers craving a bizarre, boundary-pushing ride.
